Apple is once again finding itself in the crosshairs of a major trade investigation, and this time, it involves one of the Apple Watch’s most vital safety features. The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) announced that it has “voted to institute an investigation into certain wearable devices with fall detection.” This move follows a formal complaint filed by UnaliWear, Inc., an Austin-based company that specializes in wearable technology for seniors.
The heart of the dispute lies in the technology that allows a smartwatch to recognize when a user has taken a hard fall. According to the filing, UnaliWear alleges that Apple—along with other tech giants like Google, Samsung, and Garmin—has infringed upon its specific patents related to this life-saving feature.
UnaliWear is seeking a “limited exclusion order” and a “cease and desist order” from the USITC. If the commission eventually rules against Apple, it could lead to a ban on the importation of Apple Watches into the United States. We have seen similar drama recently with the Blood Oxygen sensor disputes filed by Masimo. The USITC has identified several major respondents, suggesting that this is a broad industry-wide challenge to how fall detection is implemented in modern smartwatches.
What do you think about this latest patent challenge? Do you think these constant legal battles are slowing down innovation in the health-tech space, or is it necessary to protect smaller inventors? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Stay updated with the latest news on this by downloading the Appleosophy App from the App Store or by visiting our website.
